MESA, AZ — Mesa police are investigating an apparent road rage shooting that left one man hurt on Wednesday morning.
The incident occurred near Val Vista and University drives around 9:30 a.m. after an altercation between two men.
See video from the scene in the player below:
During the confrontation, gunfire was exchanged between the drivers. The person driving a white truck was struck by bullets and pulled over at 39th Way, where they were taken to the hospital. Police reported the victim was walking and talking after being shot.
The suspected shooter was detained in a shopping center parking lot at University Drive and Val Vista Road. His mother, Susana, arrived at the scene after learning of her son's involvement.
"I asked if he was okay, I was scared, he said he was okay, he said it was self-defense because the other person pulled a gun out," Susana said.
Police emphasized that firing a gun within city limits is a crime. Charges will be determined after investigators interview the shooting victim at the hospital.
Susana apologized to the person who was shot and said her son had just dropped off his son before the incident occurred.
"I'm pretty sure he learned. He was a really big fan of guns he was really shaken up when he called," she said.
Bullet holes and shattered glass were visible on the white truck that pulled over at 39th Way and University Drive.
Rebecca, who lives near the business park where police conducted their investigation, witnessed part of the incident outside her home.
"I think people need to remember people will get places. No matter how long it takes. And we all need to be on the same team," Rebecca said.
Mesa police continue investigating the incident. For drivers who encounter road rage situations, police recommend pulling over and taking time to cool off.
"The quicker you can get yourself away from there, the quicker you can prevent something like this from happening," police said.
